The term has long been seen as stigmatizing because it implies that there is something wrong with those who do not conform to or identify with their assigned gender.

Saturday the American Psychiatric Association’s board of trustees approved changes that would remove the term from the DSM-5, due out in May 2013. “Gender Identity Disorder” will be replaced with “Gender Dysphoria,” a more neutral diagnosis of emotional distress over one’s gender.

HRC continues to fight stigma and discrimination against transgender Americans in hospitals, schools, workplaces and all facets of daily life. Find our Transgender Visibility Guide and other empowering guides and resources here.